Support by the Broadband Access Initiative of The Pew Charitable Trusts is gratefully acknowledged.
Background and Motivation
With the funding authorized by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act 2021 (Infrastructure Act), the federal government, states, and communities were given a ten-year window of opportunity to close digital connectivity gaps improve digital equity, and transform communities.
States had slowly developed momentum toward implementation when the new administration narrowed the BEAD program to focus broadband access. In May 2025, digital equity funding was cancelled by NTIA and on June 6, 2025, the BEAD Restructuring Policy Notice made major changes to the original BEAD implementation envisioned by NTIA. States have to conduct at least one additional benefit-for-the-bargain round to select sub-awardees that minimize BEAD program outlays.
The scale and diversity of the BEAD program creates a need for transparency and accountability to ensure the responsible use of public funds. Phase I of the project developed a methodological and data framework for rigorous monitoring and evaluation. On July 7, 2025, the Quello Center issued an updated report that reflects the recent federal changes to the program (linked below).
Our current work through December 31, 2025, develops specific metrics and data analysis tools to facilitate project monitoring and an assessment of the broader impacts of the restructured BEAD program in infrastructure access and its social and economic repercussions.
